One of the most common questions asked about Fallout 3 in regards to non-essential side quests is, how does one get into the White House? Well, it's no easy ordeal, that's for sure. Then again, it's not outrageously difficult, either. The fact remains, though, that you can't simply walk from Pennsylvania Avenue through the front door. Instead, you have to be a little more… creative. Have you located Pennsylvania Ave. Northwest on your map yet? It's located in the southeast corner of the Capital Wasteland, in the downtown area (naturally), wedged in between Georgetown East and Metro Central. When you arrive at that location, don't go into the metro tunnel, but instead put your back to the entrance. Then, walk straight ahead to the building on the other side, near a pile of debris. Search the ground and look for a manhole cover. This "Utility" tunnel is your key to the White House.

Once in the tunnel, head forward and go right at the first opportunity you get. You'll be able to find plenty of goods in this room, though you'll want to be selective about what you grab. Four Turpentine bottles, some food like Fancy Lads Snack Cakes and Cram, and curative items such as a Stimpak shouldn't be left behind. And of course, don't leave without that Bottlecap Mine, the issue of Pugilism Illustrated, and that Pack of Cigarettes either. Head back into the corridor. If you continue straight ahead to the intersection with the blown-out car in the middle of it, you'll find nothing. All three passages from there lead to dead ends. So, swing across the corridor to the pathway on your left, and follow it up some stairs, all the way to a door that leads to Pennsylvania Avenue. Be sure to grab the Vodka from the nearby shelf before heading outside.

The White House isn't quite how you might remember it, but then again, how could it be? The Chinese undoubtedly made it a high priority target when launching their nuclear arms, which explains why you'll be severely radiated while traversing the small area that used to be the White House. Immediately use some Rad-X on yourself to help you survive the abnormally high radiation in the area, and deal with the Glowing Ones you encounter once outside. Then, begin exploring, but be quick. Though this is a cool area to add to your map and one of the most sought-after locations in the game, there's little to see, and you won't be able to see any of the interior of the White House, since it no longer exists. Careful searching will result in some other nice items, however, amongst them two RadAways, a Fat Man nuclear launcher, and three Mini Nukes to use in it. Nice!